REGULAR IMPRESSION is of the First US Infantry circa 1812-1813. Our goal is also to be able to portray impressions of other regiments circa 1813-1814. *********************************************** CLOTHING:

1811 Bucket Cap: felt shako with a 6 inch clip feather plume, cord and tassels, brown linen liner, leather cockade w/pewter eagle. Leather visor and leather pocket sewed on the front for the plume. There is no evidence of cap plates issued in the west.

SOURCES: Plume and tassels available from G. Gedney Godwin. Leather cockades available from John Lawrence.

1812 Pattern Coatee: Considered as an early war coat, yet the "Peace time army" including the 1st Infantry began the war (June 18th 1812) wearing the pattern of 1810. Clemson/Symmes Company received the 1812 in March of 1813 and would receive the pattern of 1813 in November of 1813. Due to the above and the cost of coats, the 1812 should be the first coat to be obtained and the 1813 the second coat obtained. Coats should have all buttonholes, lace and obvious seams hand worked, all hidden seams can be machine done.

Leather neck stock with Brass Clasp: Headquarters has brass clasps free for recruits if they make their own.

SOURCES: Don Kehoe.

Shirts: Private and Sgt. shirts were different but both of white linen.

SOURCES: John Fenner

Summer Overalls: Overalls were constructed of drilling/duck and the bottom had "tongues" that covered the shoe laces. They were extremely high wasted and somewhat fitted in the calf and thighs. Gaiters were worn over them.

SOURCES: Steve Abolt, John Fenner

Fatigue Trousers "Trowsers": They were constructed of drilling, or Russia sheeting. Trousers were loose fitting, and designed to be worn on fatigue details. In late 1813 overalls were no longer issued but trousers were and were now called overalls. The 1st Infantry continued to receive left over stores of overalls until at least July 3rd 1814. Gaiters were worn under them. U.S. general service buttons are worn with them.

SOURCES: Steve Abolt, John Fenner Buttons can be obtained from G.Gedney Godwin.

Fatigue Frock: Drilling, two button closure with general service buttons.

SOURCES: Steve Abolt. Headquarters has a pattern for loan.

Gaiters: Black painted linen or Russia sheeting.

SOURCES: Don Kehoe

"Jefferson" Bootees: Ankle high shoes. Pegged or hand sewed. Heel plates have been found in 1812 encampments.

Vest: white wool: It has been reported by current historians that vests were no longer issued after 1813, yet the 1st infantry continued to received issues till 1815.

SOURCES: Sally Bennett

ADDITIONAL CLOTHING:

Linen Roundabout: Worn during summer months, but not on guard mount.

SOURCES: Headquarters to obtain a pattern. Steve Abolt.

"Foraging cap": Made on the company level from worn out coats.

SOURCES:

Watch Coat: Each company was issued 6 company watch coats.

SOURCES: Steve Abolt

Winter Overalls: Blue with white piping.

SOURCES: Steve Abolt

EQUIPAGE:

Musket: 1795 pattern with maker marks from 1808 to 1812, with bayonet. There is no sources producing the 1795, best substitute is the 1766 or 1763 Charlesville. Members can change the lock to a contract lock. Ramrod should be replaced with a button ram rod.

SOURCES: Cabellas Dixie Gun Works

Cartridge Box: 1808 without the side ears and inner flap, these modifications that came in the early 1820's. 24 cartridge though 26 variants are known. White buff sling. For later war impressions a black sling should also be obtained.

Haversack: It is known that the 1st were not issued any till October 1814, however, our impression at events may not be of the 1st Infantry. Natural linen or Russia sheeting.

SOURCES: Don Kehoe. Tom Shaw produces Russia sheeting haversacks.

Musket Slings: Only one third of Clemson/Symmes Company was issued slings, white buff leather.

SOURCES: Don Kehoe

Common Tent: Tents were to shelter four to six men. Pegs were oak.

SOURCES: Steve Allie for the tents, Avalon Forge for the tent pegs.

ADDITIONAL ITEMS:

Tin Stew pans available from Butch Baker. Pewter or tin spoon. Two prong fork. Each soldier must have a cloths brush. Each non-commissioned officer and private must have a brush and pick, screw driver and gun worm. Many sites require flash guards and battery stalls. Pocket knives, candles, soap, flint and steel are suggested personal items.